Thoughtful Parenting: It takes just 1 (hour)

At a glance

Let’s Go! 5-2-1-0

■ 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables

■ 2 or fewer hours of recreational screen time

■ 1 or more hours of physical activity

■ 0 sugary drinks

Source: LiveWell Northwest Colorado

The Let’s Go! 5-2-1-0 framework aims to help you create a healthier home environment for you and your family. Today, we will focus on the “1” component: getting one hour or more of physical activity every day.

Regular physical activity is essential for weight maintenance and prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer and osteoporosis. While most school-age children are quite active, physical activity sharply declines during adolescence. Children who are raised in families with active lifestyles are more likely to stay active as adults than children raised in families with sedentary lifestyles.

How can you help your family be more active?

■ Make physical activity easier and be a role model

■ Make gradual changes to increase your level of physical activity

■ Incorporate physical activity into daily routines, like riding your bike to work

■ Try tracking the level of physical activity with a pedometer

■ Turn off the TV and computer and keep them out of bedrooms

■ Choose toys and games that promote physical activity

Physical activity can be free and fun. Here are examples of activities you and your family can make part of your routines:

■ Take a walk with your family

■ Play with your pet

■ Play tag

■ Take a bike ride (remember to wear a helmet!)

■ Turn on music and dance

■ Jump rope

■ Play Frisbee

■ Take the stairs

■ Park the car at the end of the parking lot

■ Make snow angels

For more information about Let’s Go! 5-2-1-0, visit www.letsgo.org or email Barb Parnell, LiveWell Northwest Colorado community coordinator, at bparnell@nwcovna.org.